on THE TAPHANDLE

Red Menace Big Amber Ale by Hale's Ales

This is a delightfully fruity and floral amber ale that is well-balanced between hops and malt. I enjoy amber ales and this has to be one of my favorites.

For me, a good food and beer pairing means that each highlights the flavors of the other. The wife made her homemade chili and scones. The spiciness of the chili brought the fruit and floral tones of Red Menace to the forefront. Similarly, Red Menace highlighted the cumin and other spices of the chili, as well as the "yeastiness" of the scones.

The meal got better with every bite and quaff, for which one can only hope.